Cheese has
received a bad rap over the years, but that
doesn't mean you need to keep it off your
plate. Its high nutritional value and vitamin
content make it an important part of a healthy
diet.

According to the American Dietetic Association, one ounce of cheese (roughly
the size of four dice) is considered one serving and provides 200 - 300 mg of
calcium. On average, cheese contains
about 100 calories and 8 or 9 grams of fat per ounce. As with many milk-based
products, cheese provides a good source of protein and vitamins.

You might be surprised to know that harder, longer-aged cheeses have
a higher fat content than creamy, rich cheeses.
Fat in cheese is
measured in parts per dry matter. That means one ounce of an aged cheese,
like Gruyere will have more fat than an ounce of a triple creme, since soft cheeses like Brie or St
Andre contain more water.

It is important, however, to pay attention to the type and amount of cheese you
eat. Cheese can
be a very healthy addition to your diet when you follow a few simple guidelines.
Moderation is the key, along with choosing high quality products. Take an intense
flavor, like Bleu d'Auvergne, or Comte,
and you need only a small portion to enhance any recipe. So enjoy, and "Say
cheese"!